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Portrait of a Lady, Half-Length, Reclining on a Chaise-Longue

Art Appreciation

In this delicate yet striking portrait, a woman reclines gracefully on a chaise-longue, her posture conveying both relaxation and introspection. The artist’s technique reveals a masterful use of colored pencils or pastel on paper, blending soft lines with subtle shading to breathe life into the figure. Noteworthy is the vibrant reddish hue of her hair, which contrasts with the muted earth tones of her dress, decorated with strokes of green that add an element of freshness and vitality.

The composition draws the viewer's eye gently along the curve of the chaise and the woman's arm, seamlessly integrating form and space. With minimal background elements, the focus remains intensely on the sitter’s contemplative expression and the textural interplay between her clothing and the smooth lines of the furniture. This work evokes a quiet emotional resonance — a moment suspended in calm thoughtfulness. Its historical atmosphere hints at late 19th-century sensibilities, marked by a subtle impressionistic influence capturing fleeting moods and intimate scenes rather than grand narratives.

Portrait of a Lady, Half-Length, Reclining on a Chaise-Longue

Paul César Helleu

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Created:

Date unknown

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0

Dimensions:

6400 × 4216 px
515 × 345 mm

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